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Oudenaarde tapestry, late 17th century - 1st half 18th century
Large Oudenaarde tapestry in wool and silk.
This tapestry shows a window opening onto the edge of a wood, with a lively pond in the foreground for a group of ducks. To the left of the tapestry, a peacock perches in a tree, its tail richly feathered.
This composition is governed by a succession of tree-lined planes, revealing a large valley dotted with dwellings.
This greenery is skilfully composed; the succession of shots has been studied to give a beautiful effect of depth without detracting from the abundant, wild aspect. The result is a composition that is legible, harmonious and pleasing to the eye. The overall effect is one of being in the middle of nature, overlooking a valley.
The drawing (especially of the plants) is precise and delicate. This weaving seems to have benefited from a very well-crafted preparatory cartoon, which the weavers then transcribed with meticulous care.
The finesse of this tapestry, enabling such precise representation of the elements, is particularly noteworthy (6 to 7 warp threads per cm).
The border is composed of garlands of foliage and flowers.
Dimensions: Width: 412 cm Height: 250 cm
Condition. Wear and tear: cracks (some relay seams broken), a few gaps (warp and/or weft threads missing).
Partially lined.
Ref: TK7HWEW4LK